Tad Hatfield

Dear E. L. Konigsburg,

Your book, From the Mixed up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler was the first book that ever inspired me to read. Initially, my mom read the book aloud to me, and I was pulled in by the humor and adventure. Later, when I read the book for myself, I was especially interested in the character Claudia.

The two things that I admire about Claudia are my two greatest weaknesses. I like that Claudia knows when she needs help. She is also brave and willing to take risks. These qualities are in contrast to my weaknesses. I can, at times, be proud and overly hesitant.

First of all, Claudia is a character who knows her limitations. She is similar to me in that we are both smart, but one thing that she possesses is humility. Though I may not outwardly boast, I often imagine myself in scenarios where I know all of the answers. I like to know things that other people do not know. When Claudia decides to run away from home, she recognizes that she will need her brother Jamie to come along.

I also admire Claudia because she is a brave character. In contrast, I am often hesitant to do things that seem risky. Claudia boldly goes on this great adventure to the city and finds an extraordinary mystery there. I am sometimes frightened to try new things or to share my faith with others.

There is one thing that Claudia lacks throughout the book. This is her love for her family. Family is one of the most important things to me. It fills my life and makes me want to love others around me. Claudia does not see the true importance of family.

Claudia and Jamie are remarkable characters. They are the ones who have inspired me to read. Thank you for letting me know these characters.

Sincerely,

Thaddeus Hatfield, a sixth grader

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